Selling in a Changing Market

Prepping Your Home For A Successful Sale

Especially in this market, when you're ready to sell your property, doing a little preparation beforehand can potentially help you sell quicker and for a higher price. We'll walk you through what the best options are for maximizing your return on investment and how you can get the job done. Frequently you'll have the option to pay at closing, rather than up front. If the idea of doing updates and decluttering your space isn't something you want to entertain, we have options for that as well. Just make sure you understand the pros and cons of listing without advance preparations and that you use someone like Movemint who can facilitate getting your property in front of the most people in addition to negotiating your contract with full representation, even if you're only paying a flat fee. For those of you who see the value in a higher sale price, here is a good starting point for what to expect when you decide to sell:

Maximize Curb Appeal

Getting buyers through the front door starts at the curb. Manicure the lawn, and trim the trees and shrubs. Pull weeds and plant some colorful flowers. Clear the walkways. Fix peeling paint and wind up that hose. Refresh your address numbers on the house so the style is up to date and people can find the home easily.

Make Repairs to Visible Blemishes

Is there something that’s an eyesore, but an easy fix? If looking at it bothers you, it could bother a potential buyer and reduce the appeal of your home. Replace burnt-out light bulbs, fix that loose door handle, and make needed paint touch-ups. If you have popcorn ceilings, have them tested for asbestos. You'll want to remove them, but if they contain asbestos make sure you hire a properly licensed contractor with experience in remediation.

Make a Buyer’s Entrance Inviting

Freshly paint the front door with a color that contrasts the house, ideally red. Add a new welcome mat and hang fresh flowers in your outdoor pots. If

Let the Light Shine In

Remove heavy window coverings to let in the natural light we all crave. Add lamps to brighten up darker areas and add more cheer. Replace all light bulbs with daylight bulbs for a bright and natural feeling light.

Remove the Clutter

This serves two purposes.

• First, you want your home to have an open and inviting appearance. Removing clutter will make rooms appear larger and more appealing.

• Second, it helps YOU prepare to move.

Going through the clutter and getting rid of what you don’t need will make your move much easier.

Remove Personal Items

It will be much easier for potential buyers to imagine your home as theirs when they can envision their belongings in the space. This includes family photos and religious items as well.

Highlight Special Features

Use accents and color to draw eyes to special features that you want potential buyers to notice—throw pillows, plants, or other eye-catching accessories.

Add Mirrors

Use mirrors to make rooms look larger and lighter. Position opposite windows (but not doors) for best effect.

Clean and Maintain

Buyers are nosy and they WILL open the cabinets, closets, and drawers. Make sure your contents are orderly and organized and kitchen cabinets have been cleaned of any food residue. Remove any odors from cooking, moth balls, perfumes and air fresheners, or other sources and prevent using those items while on the market. Call your pest removal service and make sure you are up to date on any regularly recommended treatments so your property shows in its best condition